The Coco Movie That Conquered the World and Its Inspiration Behind the Story

Coco presented a visually stunning and emotionally powerful interpretation of Mexican heritage—altars, offerings, marigolds, music, and the idea that memory keeps our loved ones close. That emotional foundation helped the story travel beyond borders and connect with audiences worldwide.

At the heart of Coco beats the spirit of an extraordinary woman: María Salud Ramírez Caballero, affectionately known as “Mama Coco.” From Santa Fe de la Laguna, Michoacán, she lived to be 109 years old and passed away in 2023. Her wisdom, warmth, and intergenerational connection are widely recognized as the foundation for Abuelita Coco— the emotional center of the film.

One of the most controversial aspects of the movie is that Disney never officially credited María Salud Ramírez as the inspiration behind the character. This omission sparked criticism inside and outside Mexico, highlighting a recurring issue: the adoption of cultural elements without clearly attributing the people and communities that inspired them.

Despite the debate, her influence is undeniable. Her legacy lives on in the film’s emotional truth—reminding us why it matters to honor those who inspire the stories we love.

While Coco was praised for its authentic portrayal of Mexican traditions, some argue that it failed to properly acknowledge key figures like María Salud Ramírez Caballero. For local communities where culture and identity are inseparable, that disconnect can leave a bitter taste.

This case reflects a broader question in global entertainment: when major corporations adopt cultural elements, what responsibility do they have to recognize the people and communities who inspired them? The film remains a resounding success—but the conversation invites reflection on how stories can go global without losing sight of their roots.

Before Coco, Día de los Muertos was mostly known within Mexico and parts of Latin America. Through breathtaking visuals and emotionally resonant storytelling, the film brought this tradition to global audiences. Today, thousands of international travelers visit places like Michoacán, Oaxaca, and Mexico City to experience altars, parades, and ceremonies honoring ancestors.

Coco did not just introduce the beauty of Día de los Muertos—it helped redefine it as a universal invitation to reflect on family, memory, and the bond with our loved ones, both living and deceased.

One of the most remarkable achievements of Coco is how deeply it resonated in cultures that already honor ancestors. In many Asian traditions, remembrance is a living practice—making the film feel familiar, meaningful, and emotionally immediate.

• China: The Qingming Festival (“Tomb-Sweeping Day”) centers on cleaning graves and offering food—paralleling the film’s message that memory keeps loved ones present.
• Japan: The Obon Festival welcomes ancestral spirits for three days with offerings, dances, and rituals—echoing the idea of the “Land of the Dead.”
• Korea: During Chuseok, families honor ancestors with rituals and special meals; Coco sparked renewed interest in preserving heritage and speaking openly about memory and loss.

In these regions, Coco became more than entertainment—it served as a reminder of the beauty of their own ancestral traditions. The film inspired families to discuss topics often treated as taboo: death, remembrance, and how cultural customs keep identity alive.

In summary, Coco is far more than a film that captivated hearts with music, color, and emotion. It became a cultural bridge that connected the world to one of Mexico’s most beautiful traditions. Even if official recognition for figures like María Salud Ramírez Caballero remains unresolved, her presence endures in the emotional DNA of the story.

Thanks to Coco, Día de los Muertos is no longer seen only as a local celebration—it has become a global festival that invites everyone to reflect on the power of memory. The film reminds us that death does not mean forgetting; it can be an opportunity to celebrate the lives of those who came before us.

Above all, Coco reinforces the value of family unity. This tradition honors those who are gone, but it also brings together those who remain, to share stories, laughter, and love. In that sense, Coco reminds us that family is our strongest bond—both in this life and beyond.

What do you think? How did Coco impact you? Do you believe big productions should do more to recognize the people who inspire their stories? Leave your comments and share your reflections on this unforgettable work.